Paul Pogba has been included in the 30-man shortlist for the 2018 Ballon d’Or award following his World Cup heroics with France.

The 25-year-old has endured constant criticism for his performances for Manchester United over the last 12 months but his recent display against Newcastle, among others, served as evidence that he is very much the side’s talismanic figure.

Away from Jose Mourinho, Pogba was one of the players who lit up Russia in the summer, producing superb displays in the middle and scoring in the final against Croatia.

He has been duly included as the only Man United player in the 30-man shortlist for this year’s Ballon d’Or.

Let us never forget that Pogba is a genuinely world class player. Various factors can leave him muzzled on the pitch at United but at the very core of Pogba lies an explosive, unique, breathtaking talent who does more to direct his side’s performances than anyone else.

In the World Cup we saw Pogba develop as not just a remarkable midfielder but a leader as well. He became a central voice in a team which French people will always remember. There should be no doubts about his place on this illustrious list.